Brendan Rodgers has spoken of his excitement ahead of his side's progress as they approach a crucial top-four clash against Southampton.

The Reds boss' side have been rejuvenated since mid-December, losing only one of their last 17. Despite having been knocked out of the Capital One Cup at the semi-final stage, Rodgers' side are well-placed to qualify for the last 16 of the Europa League, having also reached the quarters of the FA Cup and all the while, maintaining a tilt for the Barclays Premier League top four. 

But despite the advancement Liverpool have made since their troublesome opening months of the 2014-15 campaign, Rodgers knows there is more yet to be done.

"There's a lot of development in this team still," the Northern Irishman confirmed in his pre-Southampton press conference.

"It's a different team to last year in many ways, but most importantly, the philosophy is the same.

"We're still looking to achieve the same sort of things as a group, and that's vital."

Liverpool's revival has been spearheaded by their younger talents, whom Rodgers added will really demonstrate the best of their abilities over the next 18 months.

"I think we've got some really exciting young talents here. Take Jordon Ibe, he turned 19 in December," he said.

"He's an incredible player and it's great to see him performing, it's enjoyable for the fans.

"The young players who came in during the summer [Emre Can, Alberto Moreno, Lazar Markovic, Javier Manquillo] have settled now in their life away from football as well.

"Everything is coming to fruition now. The first couple of months of this season was about adapting to everything - the expectation of a big club, and as we go on, we'll improve.

"But I think we'll really get to see the best of this group next season."